ON THIS DAY

I guess that having the airport near where you were born and brought up named after you is a genuine honour. That happened to Cristiano Ronaldo on March 29th 2017 when the international airport on his native Madeira became the Aeroporto Cristiano Ronaldo. Probably less memorable though was the bust of Ronaldo that was unveiled at the airport during the proceedings – perhaps not the best likeness to the Portuguese player!

Derby County’s 2-2 draw with Fulham guaranteed The Rams a Premier League relegation place, the earliest a club had suffered Premier League relegation. It was a dismal season for Derby with a 1-0 victory over Newcastle in September being their only League victory in 38 attempts.

Wales played their first match at the magnificent Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, attracting a then record Wales home crowd of 65,614. Nathan Blake became the first Welshman to score in the stadium – sadly an own goal! – and although Ryan Giggs scored for Wales visitors Finland spoiled the party with a 2-1 victory.

Billy Meredith played his last match for Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-final against Newcastle and at 49 years and 245 days of age was the oldest player ever to play for Manchester City and the oldest to play in the FA Cup. He was also the oldest person to play for Manchester United and, when 45, the oldest to play for Wales.